Spinal cord compression caused by a brown tumor secondary to primary hyperparathyroidism

Brown tumors (BTs) are rare non-neoplastic lesions that arise secondary to hyperparathyroidism largely involving mandible, ribs, pelvis, and large bones. Spinal involvement is extremely rare and may result in cord compression.

A 72-year-old female with the primary hyperparathyroidism developed a thoracic spine BT causing T3-T5 spinal cord compression warranting operative decompression.

BTs should be included in the differential diagnosis in lytic-expansive lesions involving the spine. For those who develop neurological deficits, surgical decompression may be warranted followed by parathyroidectomy.